Police Warn of Possible Tree Removal Scam

ST. CLOUD -- St. Cloud Police are warning homeowners about a possible scam involving tree removal.

Police have been receiving calls from residents who say a landscaping and tree removal service is making promises to remove trees and stumps, demanding cash up front and then only removing the tree. The company refuses to return to remove the stump or demands cash to complete the removal and still doesn't return.

Police say you should always demand a written contract, ask for references and never pay the full amount until the job is done.

Other ideas to protect yourself include checking with the Better Business Bureau and looking for a listing in the phone book.